Holt Wood

A proper Leicestershire woodland, Holt Wood sits just outside Market Harborough and offers the kind of straightforward forest walk that doesn't require a map or hiking boots - though you'll want decent shoes after rain. The trees are dense enough to feel like you've actually left town, which is no mean feat this close to a market town.

It's a walker's spot rather than a destination attraction. You won't find visitor centres or themed trails here, just woodland paths that meander through what feels like genuine countryside. On a quiet weekday morning it's genuinely peaceful. Weekends bring the local dog-walking brigade, which is fine if you like that sort of thing.

Family groups with young children will get maybe an hour out of it - long enough for a decent stomp about and some nature spotting if you're into that. Older kids might find it a bit lacking in wow factor unless they're keen on birds or genuinely interested in forestry. Adults after a proper walk can easily string together a couple of hours by looping around and heading towards nearby paths.

If you're staying at Hidden Hideaway Glamping just down the road, Holt Wood makes a sensible morning activity before breakfast or a late-afternoon wander. It won't be the highlight of your park holiday, but it's a useful bit of greenery to have on the doorstep. Free to access, no faffing about with car parks or entrance fees. Bring a torch if you're going in winter - the paths can get properly dark under the canopy.